Rooney was left out of the squad for United's 2-1 victory over Swansea on Sunday, and while speaking to Sky Sports after bidding farewell to the club's fans at Old Trafford Sir Alex confirmed that the former Everton man wants to leave the club this summer.

"I don't think Wayne was keen to play simply because he's asked for a transfer," he said. "I think he wants to think things through in his mind. I think that's a good idea.

"We're not going to let him go. I think he's maybe a bit frustrated that he's been taken off once or twice in the last few weeks."

And speaking to the BBC, Ferguson added: "We've refused [the transfer request] - he needs to go away and think about it."

Rooney was left out of the Champions League last 16 second-leg clash with Real Madrid, sparking rumors that he would be sold at the end of the season.

United, however, is keen to keep hold of the 27-year-old and is planning on offering him a new contract.